Greater than a dozen artisans will exhibit their artistic talents in Key West throughout the Summer time Solstice Celebration, set for June 1-20 at Mallory Sq.. Attendees can watch stay portray showcases; study macrame, palm flower crafting and henna physique artwork; make flower crowns related to the solstice and extra.
The competition celebrates the June 20 summer season solstice, marking the official first day of summer season and the longest day of the yr. Introduced by the Key West Cultural Preservation Society, organizer of the nightly Mallory Sq. sundown gathering, occasions start at 7 p.m. and proceed till after the solar goes down.
Among the many featured artisans is wire sculptor Ryan Stimers, who bends and twists shining strands of wire into intricate kinds that vary from kinetic flowers and pet portraits to palm bushes and different symbols related to the Keys.
Stimers refined his wire wizardry whereas touring by way of Europe and to South America and Australia. Since settling in Key West 20 years in the past, he has emerged as a revered native artisan and is likely one of the organizers of the Summer time Solstice Celebration.
“This occasion will give Key West guests an opportunity to work together with native artists and craftspeople, observe their artistic course of throughout our demonstration days, and uncover distinctive artwork that captures the spirit of the island,” stated Stimers, who intends to stage wire sculpture giveaways in addition to demonstrations throughout the competition.
Others scheduled to showcase their skills embrace painters Kaley Bentz, Sean Dwyer and Theresa Chiechi; macrame masters Lisa and Gary Ford; henna artisan and painter Alisa Mealor; “boho seaside” jewellery maker Rachel Burrows; silkscreen professional Joanne Hasman; cleaning soap crafter Samantha Gonzalez; Isaac and Danay Valdes, expert in intaglio wooden carving and hand portray; dichroic glass jewellery creator Johnathan Craft; and Susan Schaal along with her custom-made canine merchandise.
Demonstrations will conclude with a June 20 presentation of “digital dreamscapes” by colorist and digital impressionist Nicholas Bergery.
The Summer time Solstice Celebration additionally options stay reveals by native and visiting avenue performers, island-style music, daredevil performances and demonstrations, tarot card readings, foods and drinks from native distributors, and alternatives to honor and study concerning the energy and mythology linked to the solar.
Competition actions are set towards the backdrop of Key West’s Sundown Celebration at Mallory Sq., a nightly gathering based some 50 years in the past.
The Summer time Solstice Celebration is introduced partially by the Monroe County Vacationer Improvement Council. Extra info is at sunsetcelebration.org.
